SeaWorld to care for 4 beached whales

Whales to be transported to Orlando

A team of experts is monitoring four pilot whales around the clock after a pod of 22 washed ashore this weekend.

The 17 other whales died of natural causes or had to be euthanized. Two calves and three juveniles were transported to Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Institute for rehabilitation Saturday by a specially designed marine mammal ambulance. One died at institute.

The ambulance has water boxes and sprayer systems to keep the mammals wet. The soundproof vehicle also has equipment to monitor their respiration and heart rates.

Experts say the whales are very sick and fighting for their lives.

All of the whales have high white blood cell counts, according to researchers.

It's unclear why the whale pod stranded at Avalon Beach State Park in St. Lucie County.

The goal is to transport them to SeaWorld Orlando for long term rehabilitation once they get a bit stronger.